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What are the pros/cons of living at school vs. commuting. #campuslife #trafficjam

I want to live at School, my pocketbook says I have to commute. I live 45 minutes from campus on a no traffic, best case scenario commute. I am concerned about the time, stress and safety of this twice daily commute and will talk to my advisor about maximizing classes on certain days so as not having to travel everyday. I will also see if there are some online classes in my curriculum I can take. I am concerned I will be missing out on an important part of my college experience by not living on campus. I really don't want to incur a huge debt, but I don't qualify for any Grants or free money. It's so difficult to determine what's best for me now vs. what's best in the long run. #campuslife #trafficjam #personal-finance

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Jessica’s Answer

Hi Emily. I faced this same struggle in college. I think it comes down to knowing yourself and your dedication to your studies.


For me, I lived at home and commuted about 25 minutes each one for my first semester. My first semester GPA was very low. So low that I went on academic probation. My second semester, I moved into a dorm on campus and my GPA was a 4.0. The biggest issue for me was the motivation and dedication to get to class and be on time with the added travel. When I lived on campus and could walk to class, this was never an issue.


Before going to school, I wanted to save money and saw living at home as a detriment to the social aspect of college, but did not consider the academic impact. Ultimately, both will be improved by living on campus if you are at all like me. However, if you are highly motivated and determined to make it to class and do well, you can mitigate the impact on your scholastic achievement. But you are also correct that a big piece of the college experience is the immersion in the social aspect and learning how to live on your own. Ultimately, its a decision that only you can make for yourself.

Thank you comment icon Thank you for taking the time to answer my question! Emily
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Brad’s Answer

I think it is a personal decision with financial considerations that are important to review. However, glad to hear you made the decision to be close to campus!
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Kortnee’s Answer

Hello, Jessica!


As a higher education professional, I can mention that living on campus will keep you more connected to your university. You will have easier access to facilities at your campus (e.g. the library, gym, eateries, etc.). In addition, you will not have to stress about your commute to campus. On the other hand, I've seen some of my students end up on probation due to irresponsibility and non-commitment to their academic studies while living on-campus. For instance, some students play video games in their dorms rooms all day or even party every night. If you are a responsible young adult, I recommend you live on-campus. Best of luck with your educational, personal, and professional endeavors!


Best regards,

Kortnee B.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for answering my question. I did in fact move to an apartment directly across the street from campus and I'm very happy I did! Emily
Thank you comment icon You are very welcome! It's good to know you are closer to campus. I sincerely hope you enjoy your college experience. Kortnee Burrell, M.Ed.
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